Russia to continue increasing number of armed forces for 'security of state'

MOSCOW

Russia will continue increasing the number of its armed forces, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy head of the Security Council, said on Wednesday.

Speaking at a meeting in Moscow, Medvedev outlined threats that Russia is currently facing, i.e. Ukrainian attacks, NATO's expansion, outbreak of new and escalation of old conflicts.

"To effectively protect the independence and security of our state, a set of measures will be taken to expand, increase the number of the armed forces of the Russian Federation, and strengthen them," he said.

According to Medvedev, the Defense Ministry plans to form an army corps, seven divisions, 19 brigades, 49 regiments and a fleet in 2024.

Over the last 10 months, 385,000 people joined the Russian army, including 80,000 volunteers, he said.

"Every day some 1,600 people sign contracts with the armed forces," the former prime minister said, adding that recruitment drive will continue in 2024 on the orders of President Vladimir Putin.